The Olympic Flame brought light to Edinburgh on Wednesday, as it continues its journey around the UK ahead of this summer’s Olympic Games in London. Day 26 of the London 2012 Torch Relay began in St Andrews, where budding athlete Joseph Forrester, 13, carried the Flame along West Sands beach, which was made famous by the film Chariots of Fire.
The Flame then travelled more than 145 miles as it made its way to Edinburgh, with 115 inspirational Torchbearers taking part in the relay.
They included Paul Mcintyre, 22, who regularly takes part in sport despite suffering from Becker Muscular Dystrophy. Paul carried the Flame past Stirling Castle and the Wallace Monument, while the day also saw the Relay pass the Falkirk Wheel and the Forth Road Bridge, where adventurer and author Mark Beaumont carried the Flame.
Other Torchbearers on the day included Athens 2004 judo gold medallist Maki Tsukada and ice dancer John Kerr, 32, who competed at the 2006 and 2010 Olympic Winter Games.
When the Flame reached Edinburgh, it was greeted by a huge set of Olympic rings measuring 18 metres by 8 metres and weighing approximately 3,100kg –
which were unveiled on The Mound.
which were unveiled on The Mound.
The Secretary of State for Scotland, Michael Moore, said: “From the moment the Olympic Torch arrived in Scotland, the reception it has received has been fantastic. In every village, town and city we have seen people lining the streets and really embracing the Olympic spirit and it keeps growing day by day.
“Now it is Edinburgh’s turn to be at the heart of the celebrations and today has really shown the city at its best. These Olympic rings look brilliant on The Mound and are a bold reminder that the Olympic Games are going to be a great event for the whole of UK.
Olympic officials said Thursday the fire will visit Queen Elizabeth's home, Buckingham Palace, on July 26, the second-to-last day of the 70-day torch relay across Britain and Ireland.
The flame, which was lit in Greece last month, will also tour other London high points - including Downing Street, St. Paul's Cathedral and Shakespeare's Globe theater.
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